Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest

A full-day tour of Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest offers an unforgettable glimpse into Argentina’s breathtaking natural landscape. For about seven hours, you’ll explore Lake Nahuel Huapi, cruise on a comfortable catamaran, and walk among ancient myrtle trees and lush conifer forests. At $215 per person, this experience is priced to be accessible for many travelers seeking genuine outdoor beauty and tranquility.

What we love most about this tour is how smoothly it combines relaxing boat rides with engaging walking adventures — you get the best of both worlds without feeling rushed. The tour’s highlights include the spectacular Arrayanes Forest, with its cinnamon-colored trees, and the peaceful trails of Isla Victoria, teeming with flora and fauna. Plus, the fact that pickup from your hotel is included simplifies logistics, letting you focus on the scenery.

One thing to keep in mind is the entrance fee to the park (AR$6,000), which is paid separately at Puerto Pañuelo. Weather can influence the experience as well; while most reviews mention decent conditions, weather fluctuations can impact boat trips and outdoor walks. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic natural settings and doesn’t mind a bit of weather unpredictability, this tour will suit you perfectly.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, photography, and peaceful landscapes. If you’re eager to learn some local flora, or you love spending time among ancient trees and on the water, this experience will be a highlight of your trip to Bariloche.

Key Points

• Scenic boat ride on Lake Nahuel Huapi provides stunning views and a relaxing start.
• Arrayanes Forest offers a rare opportunity to walk among cinnamon-colored, century-old myrtle trees.
• Isla Victoria showcases lush forests, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints, perfect for nature lovers.
• The included guide and round-trip transfer make logistics simple and stress-free.
• Separate park entrance fee (AR$6,000) is a consideration; budget accordingly.
• The tour emphasizes natural beauty, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.

An In-Depth Look at the Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest Tour

Starting Point: Comfort and Convenience

We begin in San Carlos de Bariloche, where the tour operator offers hotel pickup, a simple way to start your day without the hassle of organizing transport. Meeting at Mitre 150 is straightforward, and from there, you’re whisked off to Puerto Panuelo. The short transfer (about an hour) sets the tone for the relaxed pace of the day ahead.

The Catamaran Experience: A Comfortable Voyage

At Puerto Pañuelo, you’ll board a spacious catamaran, a highlight for many travelers. The boat’s comfort and stability contribute to a smooth ride across the waters of Lake Nahuel Huapi. This part of the tour, lasting roughly one hour, offers a chance to enjoy panoramic lake views framed by the surrounding mountains and forests.

A key detail is the boarding fee and park entrance fee (AR$6,000), which isn’t included in the ticket price but is necessary for access. The boat itself is described as comfortable, and some reviews mention upgrading to VIP tickets for better seats, bar service, and food — a nice touch if you’re seeking an extra dose of comfort.

Exploring the Myrtle Forest at Quetrihué

Disembarking at the Quetrihué Peninsula, you walk into the Arrayanes Forest. This forest is a true spectacle — cinnamon-colored myrtle trees grow so densely that their shapes seem almost fantastical. The tranquility and enchanting landscape are what make this part of the tour a favorite among visitors.

Expect to spend about an hour walking among these ancient trees. The paths are well-maintained, and the peaceful environment invites reflective strolling or photography. Based on reviews, visitors find the beauty and serenity of Arrayanes Forest to be a highlight, with one reviewer mentioning it as a “magical place.” The guide’s commentary enhances understanding of the flora and history of this unique ecosystem.

Isla Victoria: Lush Nature and Panoramic Views

Next, the boat takes you to Isla Victoria — an island covered in conifers and coihues, offering a paradise for plant lovers and wildlife watchers. Trails lead to viewpoints overlooking waterfalls, beaches, and the expansive lake, giving ample photo opportunities.

Travelers note that walking on Isla Victoria is a highlight, with one describing it as “very exciting,” especially for those interested in flora and fauna. The island’s quiet beaches and natural trails are perfect for a peaceful break in nature’s embrace. Again, entry here is included in the overall ticket, making this part of the experience strong value.

Return Journey: Lake Nahuel Huapi

In the final stage, the boat takes you back across Lake Nahuel Huapi to Puerto Pañuelo, from where you’ll be transferred back to Bariloche. This two-hour cruise offers a relaxing conclusion to the day, with beautiful lake vistas that linger in your memory.

Additional Considerations

While most travelers rave about the scenery and tranquility, weather can influence how much you enjoy each part. One reviewer mentioned, “We had decent weather; not sure how it would be on a bad weather day.” It’s wise to consider that rougher weather could affect the boat ride’s comfort and visibility.

Authenticity and Value

What sets this tour apart is its focus on authentic landscapes rather than commercialized attractions. The guided walks provide context about the trees and wildlife, adding educational value. The price of $215 is reasonable given the included boat rides, guided walks, and access to the parks; however, the separate park fee adds to the total cost, so budget accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, outdoor explorers, and those who appreciate quiet, scenic walks. If you enjoy photography, the views of the forests, lakes, and mountains provide fantastic opportunities. It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer organized tours with transportation included, removing the stress of planning multiple parts of a day.

It may not suit those who dislike boat trips or are sensitive to weather, as these factors can influence the overall enjoyment. Also, if you’re seeking a more active or adventurous outing, other options might be better—this tour emphasizes relaxation and scenery over physical exertion.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transfers from your hotel to Puerto Pañuelo are included, making it easy to relax from start to finish.

What is the cost of the park entrance fee?
You’ll need to pay a separate fee of AR$6,000 for entry to Nahuel Huapi National Park, payable at Puerto Pañuelo.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat journey from Puerto Pañuelo to the Arrayanes Forest and Isla Victoria lasts about one hour each way.

Are meals or snacks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. However, upgrading to VIP tickets might offer bar service onboard.

What should I wear?
Layered clothing is advisable, especially for outdoor walks. Bring waterproofs if rain is forecast and comfortable shoes for walking.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it family-friendly, especially since it’s mainly walking and boat riding, but always check with the operator regarding age restrictions.

How many people are on the tour?
The tour can accommodate up to 120 travelers, but groups are usually smaller, especially if you choose the VIP upgrade.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
Spring and summer months (October to March) offer the best weather, but the scenery is beautiful year-round.

Final Thoughts

This tour of Victoria Island and Arrayanes Forest offers a well-balanced mix of scenic boat rides, tranquil walks, and unique forests. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a peaceful day immersed in nature without the need for strenuous activity. The guidance and included transportation make for a hassle-free experience, especially for first-time visitors.

The spectacular Arrayanes Forest is a genuine highlight, offering an almost fairy-tale atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere. The Isla Victoria trails allow you to enjoy lush greenery and quiet beaches, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

This tour is fantastic value for anyone eager to see the natural beauty of the region while enjoying comfort and ease. It’s especially ideal if you’re visiting Bariloche and want a memorable day that balances relaxation and scenic exploration. Just remember to check the weather forecast and set aside some extra cash for the park entrance fee.

This experience is less about high-energy adventure and more about soaking in peaceful landscapes and stunning views, making it a solid choice for travelers of all ages who cherish authentic nature encounters.